Holding The Wire: Feature Length Paintball Documentary

Social Paintball has officially partnered with Iacon Pictures to announce Holding the Wire, a unique portrait of tournament paintball during an economically turbulent time. Jose Diaz, a veteran high school teacher, sets out to document the lives and experiences of tournament paintball players. Along the way, he encounters a variety of individuals, young and old, from different walks of life, all united by a fierce passion for tournament paintball.

This film breaks through the misconceptions that tournament paintball has long suffered by detailing the excitement of the sport and the dedication and enthusiasm of its players. It shows people who have gone from their initial enthusiasm in woods ball (or rec-ball) to their life in tournament paintball. The film follows Diaz as he strives to depict the sacrifice, motivation, and challenges faced by tournament paintballers.

Holding the Wire tells an inspiring story filled with perseverance and second chances. It is a compelling look into an enthralling sport, uncovering a passion unknown and unsung.

For two years we have been using our own funds to pay for trips to and from California every weekend to film. We have also needed to pay for other expenses, such as hotel and air travel to national tournaments. We are now out of money and in order to make this film a success, we need your help to get through the final stages of production.

EVERY DOLLAR raised on Kickstarter will go towards the completion of the film. Not one dollar will go in the filmmakers pocket!

Project Goal: Iacon’s goal is to create a film that will capture the interest of the general audience and bring attention to paintball through the documenting and telling of a great story. We at Iacon find it troubling that tournament paintball does not receive the attention and understanding that it merits from the general public.

Through film we want to bring to the masses the stories of the struggles these tournament paintball players go through in a sport that the general public misunderstands and ignores. We believe this film will finally bring the recognition to the players and sport they so love.

Production Schedule: Iacon is now in the post-production stages of the film. The goal is to wrap up the film by Summer 2012 and release it in Fall 2012.

FAQ

1. What is tournament paintball?

Tournament paintball, also known as speedball, is one of two distinct game variants in the sport of paintball, the other being woods-ball or rec-ball. Woods-ball draws many people into the paintball arena and introduces them to a popular recreational activity. Of these players some eventually go on to play tournament paintball.

Tournament paintball is a general term for a game in which the playing field is composed of bunkers, arranged symmetrically on each side of the field. It was created in this way to give a better format for competitive paintball.

Teams compete in a “capture the flag” style of game-play in which they rely on teamwork, aggressive movement, and constant communication. Tournament paintball leagues specify the time limit, point system, and number of players per team.

2.Who are the characters in the film?

We decided to approach the sport from different perspectives. Our characters range from division four beginners to professional paintball players all with their unique perspectives of the sport and their daily lives and struggles.

3. Will there be any additional trailers or teasers?

The official trailer will be released mid Summer, 2012. The official film’s release is slated for Fall 2012.

4. How can I watch the film? When will it be released to DVD?

Upon the film’s completion, we intend to submit it to various film festivals around the country in the hopes of garnering support for its distribution. As we move closer to completion, we will provide information on where the film will be showing and how you can inquire about having it shown at a venue near you.

From Director Jose Diaz: One of my students originally introduced me to paintball, and like many others I immediately fell in love with the sport. I soon realized what an underexposed sport paintball is, and set out on a two year journey to capture the lives of our characters. It has been a life-changing experience, and I know it will have the same impact on the audience. I started the film for this reason, wanting to give every person a chance to experience the undying passion of tournament paintball players. I hope we can garner your support so we can bring this film to audiences everywhere.

About Israel L.

I am the founder of Social Paintball. I've been a fan of the sport and admired paintball players for years. Together with my awesome team of producers and contributors, we produce a wide variety of paintball media. Stick around and let us know what you think.